Library's resources help turn dreams into reality
"The East Bonner County Library and staff deserves my years-long appreciation for accessing books for me from libraries from Alaska to Arizona, and for all the books they acquired seemingly at my request. They have always been and continue to be most gracious and my research was greatly enhanced by this congenial relationship, for which I am so thankful.”
These are the sentiments of one long-time patron and local author. Publishing a book or embarking on any other commercial enterprise can be daunting. Support from knowledgeable library staff can make all the difference. It can mean pursuing a dream when you feel like giving up.
When a big idea first comes to light in the mind of a potential entrepreneur, they may only see a hazy picture of an exciting dream. But, when the reality of checking all of the boxes required to start a business sets in, discouragement may quickly follow. Business plans, prototypes, employees, taxes, and the like are not necessarily the exciting aspects of business. A new entrepreneur may not even feel qualified to handle such things.
“Those getting into business for themselves should look to the library because they will be able to access resources that they could never afford on their own. Further, they’ll access the expertise of the library staff who are there and want nothing more than to see them succeed,” said Anne Pezalla, co-owner of Lively Athletics, a boutique active wear shop in Illinois.
Getting help from library staff can save a lot of time. Some patrons regularly use library computers to create and print or email business proposals, invoices, and receipts. One patron recently created a business document, but after leaving realized he needed to revise it. Our staff was able to grant him an extended amount of time on the computer to recreate the document and even offered some helpful suggestions to alleviate the need to recreate it each time. The patron was “quite happy with the results” the staff member told me.
The library’s 3D printers can be useful for producing prototypes, marketing materials, and even tools. For information about 3D printing, call or visit the Tech Desk at the Sandpoint Library (263-6930 ext. 1251) or visit the Technology page on our website. The desk is staffed with people who are trained to answer your questions about this fascinating technology.
Some business resources are available to you without ever visiting the library. For instance, the Small Business Reference Center in The Digital Library at ebonnerlibrary.org is chock full of articles and eBooks to help new and seasoned entrepreneurs. The “Business Basics” category is a great place to start. It features a Start-Up Kit with sample business plans, accounting information, and more. Browse state-specific resources such as market research data and license and permit requirements.
During this National Library Card Sign-up Month, make a point of using your library card (or getting one if you don’t yet have one) to pursue your dream of publishing a book, starting a business, or some other venture. Librarians are standing by to assist you.
UPDATES: All branches of the East Bonner County Library District are now open at their regular hours of operation. Some services are limited and some are even better. Visit www.ebonnerlibrary for details and the latest updates.
National Library Card Sign-up Month - Enter to win prizes by getting or renewing a card or referring us to a friend. Learn more from our friendly staff or read our post in The Library Blog on our website for details.
EVENTS:
Homework Center: Monday through Friday, 1-4 p.m. in the Community Room at the Sandpoint branch library. This is a dedicated time, space, staff, and high-speed internet for students to do school work in a socially distanced environment. Info: kimber@ebonnerlibrary.org or 208-263-6930, ext. 1211.
StoryWalk: At Dover City Park enjoy "Someday We Will" by Pam Webb, and "Dinosaur Roar!”" by Paul and Henrietta Stickland at McNearney Park in Ponderay. Titles are updated monthly and posted at facebook.com/BonnerStoryWalk.
